How to Train Your Dragon

Book (2017)

by Cressida Cowell

Read the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films!

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup's father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero.

In the first How to Train Your Dragon book Hiccup must lead ten novices in their initiation into the Hairy Hooligan Tribe. They have to train their dragons or be BANISHED from the tribe FOR EVER!

But what if Hiccup's dragon resembles an ickle brown bunny with wings? And has NO TEETH? The Seadragonus Giganticus Maximus is stirring and wants to devour every Viking on the Isle of Berk . . .
Can Hiccup save the tribe - and become a Hero?

How to Train Your Dragon is a major award-winning DreamWorks film series. There is also a new live action movie due to be released in 2025. The TV series, Riders of Berk, can be seen on CBeebies and Cartoon Network.

Juvenile Fiction / Fantasy / General
Juvenile Fiction / Fantasy / Dragons
Unicorns & Mythical Creatures
Juvenile Fiction / Action & Adventure / General
Juvenile Fiction / Humorous Stories
240 pages
Jump to family guidance

Family guidance

Ages 7+

The story involves stylized fantasy conflict and themes of potential tribal banishment that require basic emotional maturity. It is best suited for children who can distinguish between cartoon peril and realistic danger.

Every child is different. Use this guide alongside what you know about yours.

What to know before you start

Content details to help you decide what fits your child.

Sex & Nudity

0/5

There is no romantic or sexual content in this film, as the focus remains entirely on the bond between a boy and his dragon.

Violence & Gore

2/5

The movie features stylized action sequences involving Viking-dragon combat, including fire-breathing and character injuries, but it lacks graphic gore or realistic bloodshed.

Profanity

0/5

The dialogue is completely clean and free of inappropriate language or swearing throughout the duration of the film.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

0/5

There are no depictions of alcohol, tobacco, or drug use within the movie.

Frightening Scenes

2/5

Some scenes involving large, menacing dragons and peril during battle sequences may be intense for very young children, but these moments are balanced by the film's lighthearted tone.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

A story about a boy who learns that being different can be a superpower and that sometimes the best way to solve a big problem is by making a new friend instead of fighting.

Content Warnings

Fantasy violence
Threats of banishment

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

Features high-energy animated action sequences and fantasy creatures. The central conflict focuses on the high stakes of dragon-human relations and tribal expectations.

What Kids Can Learn

Children gain perspective on individual identity, the value of unconventional thinking, and how to build bridges with those who are perceived as different.

Key Topics Discussed

Identity and self-worth
Conflict resolution
Challenging social norms

Why Parents Might Like It

The story offers a smart, poignant narrative that rewards non-violent problem solving and emphasizes character integrity over brute strength.

Positives & learning

Positive messages

5/5

Emphasizes the power of empathy, challenging societal prejudices, and the courage required to choose kindness over traditional aggression.

Role models

5/5

Hiccup serves as an exceptional role model by demonstrating that intellectual curiosity and non-conformity are valuable strengths, especially when facing social pressure.

Representation

2/5

No specific diversity content indicated in available information regarding marginalized groups or authentic identity representation.

Learning

3/5

Provides meaningful opportunities to discuss social-emotional growth, conflict resolution strategies, and the importance of questioning inherited assumptions.

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